Food Network Kitchens nicknamed this the "broken enchilada" casserole because the soft layer of cooked tortilla chips on the bottom reminded us of enchiladas. But this dish is much easier to make!
Directions for: Beef and Bean Taco Casserole
Ingredients
2 Tbsp vegetable oil, plus more for greasing dish
1 lb(s) ground beef
3 Tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 medium onion, finely diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 15-oz can pinto beans, strained and rinsed
2 cups jarred tomato salsa, plus more for serving
6 cups yellow corn tortilla chips (about 5 oz), plus more for serving
3 cups shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack blend
Suggested toppings1 cup sour cream, stirred well for easy dolloping
1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
2 plum tomatoes, diced
avocado, diced
cup pickled jalapenos, chopped
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375F. Lightly oil a 9-by-13-inch casserole dish.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the beef and sprinkle with the chili powder, cumin, oregano, 1 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat into smaller pieces, until browned, about 5 minutes. Add the onions and garlic and cook until the onions are soft, about 5 minutes more. Add the beans, salsa and 1/2 cup water and bring to a simmer; cook until the sauce thickens and coats the meat, about 5 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste. (This beef-and-bean mixture can be made up to a day ahead of time.)
3. Lay half the tortilla chips on the bottom of the oiled casserole dish. Spread half the meat mixture on top. Sprinkle half the cheese blend over the meat. Repeat with the remaining chips, meat and cheese. Bake uncovered until the cheese melts and the casserole is hot, about 20 minutes.
Suggested toppings1. Top with sour cream, lettuce, tomato, avocado and pickled jalapenos if desired. Serve with more salsa and tortilla chips on the side.
Source and Credits
Courtesy of Food Network Kitchen
Copyright 2013 Television Food Network, G.P. All rights reserved
See more: Casserole, Cheese, Dinner, Beans, Beef, Main, Mexican